ASCENSION PARISH, LA — A community is in mourning after a senseless act of violence on a Louisiana interstate left two young men dead and others injured. Detectives with the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit have arrested Jakiryn Johnson, 19, and Kavis Octave Jr., 17, in connection with the tragic shooting that has devastated families and shaken the town of Donaldsonville.
The incident, which unfolded on a stretch of interstate still reeling from the aftermath, claimed the life of 20-year-old Dantrell Gibbs and 18-year-old Jermaine “Trey” James, both of Donaldsonville. Authorities confirmed that both young men later succumbed to gunshot injuries sustained during the attack.
Gibbs and James, remembered by friends and family as kind, ambitious, and full of promise, were part of a group traveling together when gunfire erupted. While details of the motive remain under investigation, authorities have confirmed that multiple people were in the vehicle targeted during the shooting. The number of injured victims has not been disclosed.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our community,” said Ascension Parish Sheriff Bobby Webre. “Two young lives have been cut short by violence that should never have happened. We are committed to ensuring justice is served.”
The arrests of Johnson and Octave came after an intensive investigation led by the Violent Crimes Unit. Both suspects are now in custody and are facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder and attempted murder. Given the severity of the case, officials have indicated that additional charges may follow.
As the community processes the grief, loved ones have begun organizing vigils and memorials for the victims, whose futures were stolen in an instant. Friends describe Dantrell as a talented young man with dreams of entrepreneurship, while Trey was a beloved high school athlete with a bright smile and a bigger heart.
“There’s an entire community hurting right now,” said a local pastor. “We’ve lost two of our sons. This violence has to stop.”
Counseling resources and crisis support have been made available for students and families impacted by the tragedy.
The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office at 225-621-8300 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 225-344-STOP (7867).
As Donaldsonville mourns, the memory of Dantrell and Trey will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them — a painful reminder of lives taken far too soon
